How to Stop the Constant Need for Kids' Snacking

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We homeschool. I work at home. We spend a lot of time at home! It seemed like there was a constant need for snacking in our home. I’m not sure what it is about being at home that makes kids feel the need to eat every 5 minutes…but it does. From my experience, it’s a worldwide problem.

I Made a Solution to the Constant Snacking Problem

I know, you’re asking, “What? A solution?” A solution to the age-old “my kids eat me out of house and home” dilemma? (Does dilemma even do this perplexity justice.) Let me give you some validity. This constant need for snacking is a real, legitimate thing. Since I work at home, I often need my kids to be independent. I realize the crazy you might think I have oozing from my brain. Maybe all this being at home stuff has made me a little insane but it is our life! One day, when I realized I was helping them with snacks or answering their questions about food what seemed like every 5 minutes, I decided enough was enough and took matters into my own hands.

Our Snack Scheduler

I posted a schedule on our pantry. They were no longer allowed to eat outside of the posted times. You can work a schedule based on your family and your needs, but this is my guarantee. As long as they follow the rules, this will solve your world hunger problems.

8:30 Breakfast (Like a full, real breakfast. Not first breakfast, or round one. But (choose one) pancakes/waffle/cereal and some fruit and glass of milk.

10:30 Snack (I keep a variety and I keep them healthy.)

12:00 Lunch (They can make their own or eat leftovers for the most part. I have also prepared boxes and left them in the fridge on occasion.)

3:00 Snack

6:00 Dinner (I have them help prepare dinner.)

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How This Stopped the Constant Need Snacks

If you haven’t read it, take a look at my post Teaching Kids How To Budget Easily With Groceries. There have been so many benefits to involving them in food and cooking. They gain a perspective of the money and work involved in preparing all the food they ask for. There is also a benefit in that they don’t want to do the prep and clean up as well so they will sometimes forego the extra food. And the best benefit? There is no longer a constant need for kids’ snacking.

I truly believe they ask for food out of boredom and not actual hunger. I am using this to my benefit to teach them what it takes to manage food in a household…and it works! We’ve been doing this for 2 years now. It’s easy, it’s fun, and they love it!